Levein happy with poppy decision

Scotland manager Craig Levein has welcomed the decision to allow his players to display poppies against Cyprus in order to honour the war dead - a group that includes his own grandfather.

PUBLISHED: 11:13, Thu, Nov 10, 2011

Craig Levein [PA]

Scotland manager Craig Levein has welcomed the decision to allow his players to display poppies against Cyprus in order to honour the war dead - a group that includes his own grandfather.

The Scottish Football Association decided to wear black armbands with embroidered poppies during Friday's Armistice Day friendly after their English counterparts secured a compromise deal with FIFA, after being denied the chance to wear them on their strips against Spain.

Levein, wearing a poppy on his training shirt at Thursday's pre-match media conference, said: "I'm not speaking for the SFA but personally I feel we should honour people that died during war. My own grandfather died in the Second World War so from my point of view it's straightforward."

The visiting support in Larnaca will be supplemented by British troops stationed in Cyprus, many of whom have served or are due to serve in Afghanistan.

"They are just incredibly brave people and I wish I had the same courage. They do a fantastic job," Levein said. "Obviously my own history very much aligns me to be grateful to the people that have served their country."

Scotland captain Darren Fletcher also welcomed the opportunity to show their gratitude to those who had lost their lives in conflict.

"I think the poppies on armbands - a small gesture like that from the Scotland team - means a lot," said the Manchester United midfielder, who was also sporting a poppy.

"It shows we are respectful to the heroes who have lost their lives for our country.

"I know a few military are going to be coming to the game. I know some of the players have made their complimentary tickets available, which will be good as well. To come and watch us will hopefully bring a smile to their faces and it's a little bit of a thank you for what they are doing for us right now.

"I would just reiterate how proud we are of them and how much it means that they are out there fighting for us, for our country."